Hawaii is being slammed by what officials are calling the worst flooding in over two decades—prompting urgent evacuation orders and a stark warning to residents: “LEAVE NOW.” Gov. Josh Green said the crisis has been fueled by already saturated ground from last week’s snowfall, with relentless rainfall pushing conditions to a breaking point. Areas like Luluku have seen 25 inches of rain within 24 hours, according to the National Weather Service, predicting more precipitation in the forecast. The flooding has already caused widespread damage, with waters lifting cars and threatening homes across the island, according to the AP. Officials ordered evacuations for roughly 5,500 residents on Oʻahu’s North Shore, while at least 10 people were hospitalized for hypothermia. No deaths have been reported. Green warned the financial toll could be staggering, estimating around $1 billion in damage to infrastructure, including airports, schools, roads, and hospitals. The governor said he is in contact with the White House as federal assistance is expected to support ongoing response and recovery efforts.
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